Green Cleaning
- Jun 2
- 3 min read
If you’re trying to move away from harsh, chemical-laden cleaning products, you’re not alone. Many people are now opting for natural cleaning methods that are better for the environment, safer for kids and pets, and kinder to our health. The great news is that you don’t need anything fancy. In fact, most natural cleaning heroes are already in your kitchen cupboard – and they often work just as well (if not better) than the shop-bought stuff.
Let’s start with the basics: white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda. These two are your natural cleaning staples. Vinegar is brilliant for cutting through limescale, soap scum, and greasy residue. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to clean windows, mirrors, kitchen counters, bathroom tiles, and taps. You can even pour it down your drains to help keep them fresh. Not keen on the sharp smell? Add a few drops of essential oil like lemon, eucalyptus, or lavender to soften the scent and leave your home smelling lovely.
Bicarbonate of soda is equally handy. It’s gentle enough not to scratch, but powerful enough to lift stains and grime. Make a paste with water and use it to scrub ovens, sinks, bath tubs, or even stained mugs. Sprinkle it on your mattress or carpet, leave it for 15 minutes, then hoover it up to absorb odours. You can also use it in the washing machine to freshen clothes and remove lingering smells.
Next up, lemons. Lemons are naturally antibacterial and full of citric acid, which helps break down grease and brighten surfaces. Rub half a lemon directly onto chopping boards or over dull chrome taps to remove limescale and make them shine again. Add lemon slices to a bowl of water and microwave it for a couple of minutes – the steam will loosen food splatters, making your microwave easy to wipe clean.
Now, here are a few ingredients you might not have thought of. Vodka, believe it or not, is an excellent natural cleaner – and we’re talking about the cheap, undrinkable kind! It’s great for shining mirrors and glass and also acts as a natural disinfectant. Spritz it on upholstery or curtains to neutralise odours without leaving a strong scent behind.
Uncooked rice is surprisingly useful too. If you’ve ever struggled to clean the inside of a narrow vase or bottle, just add a spoonful of dry rice, a bit of warm water, and a drop of washing-up liquid. Give it a good shake – the rice acts as a gentle scrubber, reaching places you can’t.
Another hidden gem is banana peel. The inside of the peel works wonders on leather. Rub it gently on shoes, sofas or bags, then buff with a soft cloth for a natural shine. It’s also brilliant for cleaning dusty houseplant leaves – just wipe gently to remove dirt and bring back their natural gloss.
Cornflour (or cornstarch) is great for lifting grease and oil stains from fabric and upholstery. Simply sprinkle it over the affected area, leave it to sit for 10–15 minutes, then brush or vacuum it off. It’ll absorb oil without damaging the fabric.
And let’s not forget about tea – specifically black tea. Brew a strong cup, let it cool, and use it to clean and polish wooden furniture or floors. The tannins in tea lift grime, restore a bit of shine, and can even help disguise small scratches.
You can also rely on steam and hot water. A kettle of boiling water and a good microfibre cloth go a long way. Steam naturally loosens grime and kills bacteria without the need for chemicals. It’s ideal for things like tiles, grouting, or cooker hoods.
By switching to these natural methods, you’re creating a cleaner home in more ways than one. You’re reducing toxins, cutting down on plastic waste, and using affordable ingredients that don’t cost the earth – literally or financially. So next time you’re tempted by a colourful bottle in the supermarket, remember: the best cleaning solutions might already be in your cupboard. Give them a try – your home (and the planet) will thank you for it.
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